Arts in Action 2025: Continuing a Legacy of Creativity and Connection

Each year, Parents’ Foundation for Transitional Living is honored to host Arts in Action, a community art show that celebrates creativity, healing, and the power of self-expression. This year’s show, Arts in Action 2025, will take place at the Creative Arts Workshop in New Haven from November 21st through December 3rd, with a reception on Friday, November 21st, from 5–7 PM.

The event, held in memory of Shauna Devlin, began as a way to honor the life and passion of one of our beloved team members. Shauna was an extraordinarily dedicated Program Specialist who believed deeply in the power of the arts to inspire and heal. With degrees in English and Theater, she poured her creativity into every part of her work — from leading acting groups and poetry discussions to teaching painting and curating in-house art shows.

After her tragic passing in 2022, we created the Shauna Devlin Arts in Action Memorial Fund to carry forward her spirit and vision. What began as an in-house art display has since blossomed into an annual community event, growing each year with the support of local organizations and the participation of talented residents and artists across programs.

Now in its fourth year, Arts in Action continues to shine as a symbol of collaboration, resilience, and joy. This year’s show brings together the creative energy of Parents’ Foundation for Transitional Living, Chapel Haven Schleifer Center, and East Street Arts — each offering unique expressions of art and meaning through their residents' or clients’ work.

We’re also incredibly grateful for our generous sponsors who help make this event possible: Canal Crossing, Coastal Bridge Advisors, and East Street Arts, whose continued partnership and belief in community-based creativity allow us to bring this vision to life each year.

Art has always been a part of who we are at Parents’ Foundation — it provides a space for growth, self-expression, and connection. Through painting, writing, theater, and more, residents explore their voices and discover new ways to share their stories.

We invite you to join us at the Creative Arts Workshop (80 Audubon Street, New Haven, CT) this November to experience the inspiring work of our artists and celebrate the legacy of creativity that Shauna began.

Arts in Action 2025 — where art, healing, and community come together.

Interested in donating to the fund? Click below! All proceeds are used for events and activities related to promoting the arts, which Shauna loved.  Some expense examples include: 

• Art supplies  

• Trips to the museums, theater, and musical events 

• In-house theater or musical events 

• Supplies for our in-house acting group 

Donate